46. Luke Ayling

The meteoric rise of Luke Ayling was one of the major success stories of an action-packed campaign for the Arsenal Academy.

Having signed scholarship terms in the summer of 2007, Luke made 23 appearances for Steve Bould’s under-18s side in 2007/08 but question marks were raised over his aerial ability and the frequent mistakes which had become a feature of his game.

How the tables have turned. Under the stewardship of Bould, Ayling has developed into one of the brightest talents in Arsenal’s ranks. His early-season showings for the under-18s were a sign of things to come as he played a key role in the double success.

A genuinely two-footed centre-back, Luke developed a fruitful partnership with Kyle Bartley at the back and was also seen a role model for younger defenders such as Rhema Obed and Daniel Boateng.

Also capable of playing in midfield, Luke scored his first goal for the u-18s in the victory over Southampton in October and didn’t look back.

His commitment to the cause was exemplified further when he went in goal for the majority of the match against Fulham after regular ‘keeper James Shea suffered an injury. He impressed between the sticks, making a superb save that any no.1 would have been proud of.

Rewarded with a professional contract in the summer, Luke will now be looking for a season as a regular in the Reserves with the possibility of a loan move after that.

Born August 25th 1991

Signed scholarship Summer 2007

Signed professional Summer 2009